I used to think that technology, or lack of it, would solve these problems. More connection. More communication. But it really won't.
It's just as much about the outreach as it is about the writing. Email authors you like. Give them thoughtful feedback. Be generous. It's hard work. It's a relationship and community building.
This! Not many people will reach out to a blogger to say thank you or give their take on a post. That's the first building block to a thriving community.